Pyramid Peak

This was actually a training hike for the Monday Hikers on our lead up to the third highest peak in the Tahoe area (Mount Rose). As it turned out, due to the wind, it was tougher than Rose. This route should probably be rated at around a 4.2 - 4.5 in calmer conditions. There are several approaches to the summit, but we chose to most direct (and shortest) one. As we neared top approach to the summit, the group split in two, with the eager group forging ahead, and the "I WILL DO IT" group bringing up the tail end.

The trailhead of our chosen route is a bit hard to find. The only parking is about 100 yards west in a "pullout" on the south side of Highway 50. This route is an unofficial "use" trail, although a fairly well established one, that runs along the side of Rocky Canyon.

The first section winds its way up the side through the forest with an occasional log laying across the path.

Along the way are a few magnificent examples of Jeffrey Pines that escaped the loggers notice (or were too difficult to get to).

As the trees start thinning out above 7,500 feet, you start being able to see for more than a few hundred yards.

After another 1,000 feet of up, we began to get our first glimpses of our destination.

At the base of the final section (at around the 9,500' level), the eager group were way out ahead while the more leisurely hikers enjoyed the views to the south.

The final push to the summit involved negotiating granite 'chunks' the size of small cars (with the occasional bus thrown in). It's from this point on that we encountered winds that seemed intent on blowing us off the mountain!

When we stopped to hold on to a rock and lift our heads, we got to enjoy the views, which was one of the reasons we were up here in the first place.

As the rear group approached the top, the first group started heading back down. They were tired of being beat up by the wind.

Rounding the top, we made our way to the highest point while skipping over the jagged cobbles, trying not to get blown off our feet.

Some enterprising souls had piled some of the rocks in an attempt to make a wind break/shelter of sorts. It didn't actually help much.

The views into the Crystal Basin from the summit were, however quite spectacular. They made the climb, and our battle with the wind worthwhile!

On the way back down, the advance group took time out for the views and a group photo op.

Everyone was relieved to be going back down after this adventure.

I think all of us were happy to do the climb, and would probably do it again - although we'd pay closer attention to the forecasted wind velocities!